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Where football transfers meet property strategy: summer reflections & winter readiness

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The 2025 summer transfer window shattered records, with Premier League clubs alone spending over £3 billion on new talent. Fourteen players were signed for fees exceeding £50 million.

While the window officially closed on 1 September, the pace hasn’t slowed. Furthermore, with the January 2026 window less than two months away, clubs are already strategising, and so should landlords.

Just as sporting directors, managers, and club owners prepare for squad changes, local property owners should be positioning their homes to attract high-profile tenants. The window may be short, but the preparation is constant. Right now, clubs, players, and agents are actively working on January moves. For landlords with properties that may be of interest to this profile of tenant – here are some top tips and considerations ahead of the winter transfer market.

Landlords: get your property match-ready

To maximise exposure and secure prime tenancies, landlords must act now. The summer window was a clear indicator of demand. Our Sports & Entertainment team anticipated a busy season, but the volume and scale of deals exceeded expectations.

Working closely with clubs, agents, and advisors, we facilitated nearly 40 player relocations across the UK, covering both the men’s and women’s game – a significant proportion of overall moves.

From international stars to backroom staff, our teams provided trusted advice and seamless support.

Why renting appeals to players

Many players opt to rent rather than buy, valuing flexibility and speed. For landlords with high-quality, turnkey properties, the summer window presented a golden opportunity. As well as assisting players moving from one UK club to another, we also supported international relocations, helping players and staff settle in new cities and new countries.

It’s not just players moving in, many also rent out their existing homes when they transfer to new clubs. We’ve seen a rise in players seeking property management services and help to find tenants, especially when friends or colleagues approach them directly. Our team handles everything from compliance and legalities to handovers and ongoing management, working closely with exemplary player representation to ensure a smooth process.

Emerging trends: rent-to-buy options

A growing number of players are exploring rent-to-buy arrangements, starting with a rental and securing an option to purchase later. Here expert property advice is key in order to structure deals that work for everyone.

Key rental features in demand

Regardless of budget, players consistently seek:

  • Secure, high-quality accommodation
  • Turnkey readiness
  • A professional, discreet service
Hotspots for football tenants

Certain areas remain perennial favourites:

  • North West: Manchester, Liverpool (Formby), Hale, Bowdon, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Wilmslow – top choices for Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Everton, and Burnley
  • South-West London: Richmond, Barnes, Fulham, Ealing – favourites for those joining Fulham and Brentford
  • Elmbridge & Surrey: for Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Fulham connections
  • East London/Essex: Popular with West Ham and Charlton
  • North London & Hertfordshire: Hampstead, St John’s Wood, and surrounds for Spurs and Arsenal
Looking ahead: the winter transfer window

The 2026 winter window runs from 1 January to 3 February, covering the Premier League, EFL, and major European leagues. We’re already preparing, focusing on stock and availability to meet the fast-paced needs of clubs and their personnel.

Landlords and vendors with the right properties should act now to be part of the next wave of opportunity.

 

Further information

Contact Imogen Bliss or John-Paul Case

Savills Sports, Media & Entertainment

 

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